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en-usCopyright 2015 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Reviews: What's New This Weekhttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/01/21/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/01/21/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/01/21/reviews-whats-new-this-week/#commentsFiled under: New In Pop Culture, TV

Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "No Strings Attached"
Starring Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman, "No Strings Attached" is a romantic comedy about a couple who embark on a friendship based on casual sex. Obviously, the subject matter makes this film inappropriate for kids, as does the strong language and scenes of drug and alcohol use. Rated R, iffy for kids 16-18

DVD: "Buried"
A man wakes to find himself sealed in a coffin in "Buried," a psychological thriller starring Ryan Reynolds. Although the entire film takes place within the coffin, it is intensely scary and the strong language and scenes of violence (via grainy cell phone images) make it inappropriate for kids. Rated R, iffy for kids 16-18

TV: "Bubble Guppies"
Colorful and cute, the "Bubble Guppies" live together in an underwater world full of adventure and learning. Created by the team responsible for "The Backyardigans," the show features fun music, endearing characters and kid-friendly humor. Rated TV-Y, OK for kids 3+

Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "The Green Hornet"
A superhero "bromance" based on the popular '60s TV series, "The Green Hornet" stars Seth Rogen and Jay Chou. While the childish jokes may make tween boys laugh, the film's violence, sexual content and rough language make it more suitable for older kids. Rated PG-13, OK for kids 13+

DVD: "Alpha and Omega"
The daughter of a wolf pack leader and her best pal fall in love in "Alpha and Omega," a 3-D adventure comedy featuring Justin Long, Hayden Panettiere and the late Dennis Hopper. The message that love is more important than status is a good one, but most of the laughs come courtesy of sexually suggestive jokes that little kids won't even get. Rated PG, OK for kids 8+

Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Country Strong"
Starring Gwyneth Paltrow, "Country Strong" tells the story of a big-time country music singer battling alcohol and an overbearing husband. Mature themes, sexual situations and lots of swearing make this an inappropriate choice for young teens. Rated PG-13, iffy for kids 14-15

DVD: "The Yellow Handkerchief"
Despite the presence of "Twilight" star Kristen Stewart, "The Yellow Handkerchief" is not a tween-friendly film. The story revolves around a misfit group of strangers traveling together in search of love and redemption in New Orleans. Stewart's character is sexually assertive and, although ultimately uplifting, the film is far too mature for young teens. Rated PG-13, iffy for kids 14-16

TV: "Bob's Burgers"
A new animated comedy on Fox, "Bob's Burgers" features the Belcher family struggling to keep their burger joint afloat. Crass humor, crude language and lots of sexual innuendo make this one inappropriate for young viewers. Rated TV-14, iffy for kids 13-15

That first haircut is a major milestone in a child's life. Just like first steps and first words, it's a moment a parent never forgets.

However, unlike walking and talking, getting a haircut can be a little scary for some kids. And who can blame them? Sitting in a tall, swivel chair, wrapped in a smock with a stranger coming at you with scissors is a completely new and bewildering experience. Here's how to make it less traumatic and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

When to go:There is no right age to get that first haircut. As a parent, you will know when the length of your child's hair becomes too long. Remember: Cutting off those curls often means they won't grow back the same. Be prepared for a child who looks less like a baby and more like a toddler after that first trim.

Prepare:If you're concerned that your child is going to react badly to the experience, prepare him first. Avoid using the word "cut" when describing what will happen, as that can conjure up scary images for a child. To introduce him to the strange sights, smells and sounds of the salon or barber shop, bring him in before the big day just to observe.

Where to go: There are many salons that cater just to children. These often have fun and safe chairs for kids to sit in, toys and movies to keep them occupied and staff who are specially trained to deal with first timers.

What to bring: A favorite toy can go a long way to calming a nervous child. Give her something she cherishes to hold on to while she's getting her trim. If you want to take pictures (and what parent doesn't?), be sure to bring along a friend or family member to act as photographer. This way, you can focus on your child while your partner captures the moment.

In case of meltdown: If your child has a tantrum, it's best to stop and reschedule for another day. A bad experience with a first haircut can set a negative tone for future visits to the salon. Likewise, if your child wakes up on the wrong side of the bed on the big day, go ahead and reschedule. Better to wait a few days than needlessly traumatize your child.

Saving a lock of hair:Along with capturing the moment on film, many parents like to save a lock of hair from the first haircut. If there is enough hair, ask the barber to wrap a little bit in a small elastic before cutting.

DVD: "Step Up 3-D"
The third film in the franchise, "Step Up 3-D" won't win any acting awards, but young viewers will no doubt enjoy the spectacular 3-D dance sequences. Though not overly violent, the film does include a few scenes of brawling dancers, plenty of sexy moves and some fairly rough language. Rated PG-13, OK for kids 13+

TV: "Blais Off"
Former Top Chef contestant Richard Blais makes use of unconventional cooking methods to spice up traditional dishes on "Blais Off," a new reality cooking show on Science Channel. While viewers will find most of the recipes impossible to duplicate, they just might be inspired to get creative in the kitchen themselves. Rated TV-G, OK for kids 8+

Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Little Fockers"
The third installment of the popular series, "Little Fockers" brings back the original cast members and adds a few more children. The plot may center around family, but the rough language and sexual innuendo make it inappropriate for young teens. Rated, PG-13, iffy for kids 13-15

DVD: "Easy A"
Inspired by Nathaniel Hawthorne's classic novel "The Scarlet Letter", "Easy A" examines the mating habits of college students. All the action may take place off screen, but the film is about sex, and therefore one that even older teens should skip. Rated PG-13, iffy for kids 14-16

TV: "Kidnapped by the Kids"
A reality show on the new OWN network, "Kidnapped by the Kids" follows workaholic parents and their unhappy children as they attempt to restore balance in their relationships. It's an emotional exercise that might even inspire some families to reexamine their own priorities. Not Rated, OK for kids 9+

Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Yogi Bear"
A beloved cartoon character since the early 1960s, "Yogi Bear" finally makes his big-screen debut. The cast is talented, but the generic plot and silly humor make this a film only a little kid could love. Watch out for lots of slapstick violence and insulting language. Rated PG, OK for kids 7+

DVD: "Despicable Me"
An evil villain with mommy issues adopts three little girls in "Despicable Me," an animated comedy featuring the voice talent of Steve Carell. Some families may take issue with the film's portrayal of the adoption process, which is as unrealistic as it could be. Otherwise, the movie is silly fun with a positive message about the underlying good that can be found in everyone. Rated PG, OK for kids 6+

TV: "The All Nighter Before Christmas"
The Penguins of Madagascar celebrate the holidays in Nickelodeon's "The All Nighter Before Christmas." As usual, King Julian mucks things up as the zoo residents prepare for the annual celebration. It's good clean fun, but some kids might be alarmed to see Santa tied up, slapped around and hit by a truck. Rated TV-Y7, OK for kids 6+

For many families, settling down together to watch a Christmas movie is as much a tradition as hanging stockings and trimming the tree. To help you plan your viewing schedule, we've rounded up a list of our 20 favorite Christmas movies for kids. From tots to teens, you will find a little something for everyone here. Included are the old classics, some more recent favorites and a couple you may have even forgotten about.

Think we left something out? Tell us your favorite Christmas films by leaving a comment below!

1. "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" (1964): From a 1939 story by Robert L. May, the character of Rudolph was made famous in this stop-motion animation movie that first aired on NBC in 1964. Digitally remastered in 2005, this heart-warming story about a misfit reindeer and his glowing red nose has become a Christmas tradition in many families.

2. "Olive, The Other Reindeer" (1999): A character born out of a misunderstanding of the lyrics to "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," Olive the dog got her own animated special thanks to executive producer Matt Groening of "The Simpsons" fame. Olive is a sweet little dog who misunderstands Santa when he says he needs the help of "all of the other reindeer" to prevent Christmas from being canceled.

3. "A Christmas Story" (1983): What could be more entertaining than a loving-but-dysfunctional family at Christmastime? Set in the 1940s, the story of Ralphie Parker and the build-up to what he hopes will be the best Christmas ever gets funnier every year. Catch it during its annual 24-hour airing on TBS each Christmas Eve.

4. "Frosty the Snowman" (1969): The story of a magical snowman with a big personality, this movie was based on a song made famous by Gene Autry in 1950. In addition to a magic hat, this 30-minute animated movie has drama, redemption and a surprise appearance by Santa Claus himself.

5. "Miracle on 34th Street" (1947): Every child who has ever wondered if the department store Santa is the real thing will find reason to believe in this Academy Award-winning movie. A young Natalie Wood gives a beautiful and touching performance as a little girl who helps those around her learn the true meaning of Christmas.

6. "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas" (1966): He's a mean one, but we love the Grinch as he tries to spoil Christmas for the residents of Who-ville. As with all good villain movies, the bad guy learns a lesson in the end and everyone lives happily ever after.

7. "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas" (2000): The beauty and whimsy of Dr. Seuss' imagination comes to life in Ron Howard's live-action remake of the 1966 classic. Jim Carrey is perfectly cast as the Grinch and the mayhem and madness are laugh-out-loud funny.

8. "The Year Without a Santa Claus" (1974): In this claymation television special, Santa Claus does the unthinkable: He gets fed up and decides to take a vacation instead of delivering Christmas gifts. Mrs. Claus comes to the rescue as she and the elves try to help the world rediscover the spirit of Christmas.

9. "A Charlie Brown Christmas" (1965): It just wouldn't be Christmas without Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang. A timeless story about a boy searching for the true meaning of the holiday, the film is memorable not only for the sad little tree in which he finds it, but also for the wonderful score by composer Vince Guaraldi.

10. "The Muppet Christmas Carol" (1992): Jim Henson's Muppets do Dickens in this kid-friendly adaptation of the classic story. With Kermit as Bob Cratchit and Miss Piggy as his wife, the film is as silly as you would expect and surprisingly touching.

11. "The Nightmare Before Christmas" (1993): Santa gets the Tim Burton treatment in this offbeat and somewhat bizarre stop-action fantasy movie. Alternately scary and funny, the movie features a ghoulish Jack Skellington kidnapping and torturing Santa in an effort to take over Christmas.

12. "Home Alone" (1990): Bumbling criminals try to take advantage of a boy left home alone on Christmas in this slapstick comedy by the late John Hughes. The movie that launched Macaulay Culkin's career is as entertaining today as it was when first released.

13. "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" (1992): Not quite as good as the original but still a blast, this film showcases New York City decked out in all its Christmas finery. The slapstick comedy might be over the top, but the hilarious work of Tim Curry makes it all worthwhile.

14. "Eloise at Christmastime" (2003): Eloise, the imp of the Plaza Hotel, plays matchmaker in this movie based on the popular books by Kay Thompson. Charming and sweet, Eloise teaches the adults around her about compassion in her own mischievous and delightful way.

15. "An All Dogs Christmas Carol" (1998): Charles Dickens goes to the dogs in a canine version of the classic Christmas tale. A big, bad bulldog gets schooled in the true meaning of Christmas by lovable Charlie and his cute sidekick, Itchy.

16. "The Polar Express" (2004): Live performances were translated into digital images for this unique-looking animated film starring Tom Hanks. Groundbreaking filmmaking technique aside, it's a timeless story about a young boy trying to discover the true meaning of Christmas.

17. "Elf" (2003): Will Ferrell is up to his usual tricks as Buddy, an orphan raised by Santa Claus and his elves. Returning to the real world in search of his father, Buddy finds hilarious adventure -- and love -- in New York City.

18. "Mickey's Christmas Carol" (1983): Disney's version of the Charles Dickens classic takes Ebeneezer Scrooge McDuck on a journey to find the true meaning of Christmas. Ghosts Goofy and Jiminy Crickett, along with Bob Cratchit Mickey and his nephew Fred Donald, help Scrooge see the light before it's too late.

19. "Prancer" (1989): A tear-jerker with a happy ending, this film features a young girl struggling to repair her broken family while nursing a special reindeer back to health. Full of heart and warmth, the film is touching without being too sappy.

20. "A Christmas Carol" (1951): Of all the versions of Dickens' classic story, this one is by far the best. A beautifully simple presentation devoid of special effects and gimmicks, it's a film every family should see this time of year.

DVD: "Shrek Forever After"
Everyone's favorite ogre and his pals are back in "Shrek Forever After," the fourth installment of the popular series. This one features an alternate universe plot that lets the familiar characters step into very different roles. It's funny, has a positive message and the violence is of the humorous slapstick variety. Rated PG, OK for kids 6+

TV: "Christmas Cupid"Putting a Hollywood spin on Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," ABC Family's "Christmas Cupid" replaces Scrooge with a workaholic PR executive. After her famous client unexpectedly dies, the main character is shown the error of her ways by the ghosts of her past, present and future lives. Sexual situations, strong language and lots of alcohol consumption make this movie inappropriate for younger viewers. Rated TV-14, OK for kids 14+

Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Black Swan"After scoring the role of a lifetime, a beautiful and dedicated ballerina descends into madness in "Black Swan," a macabre thriller starring Natalie Portman. Dark and intense, the film features scenes of emotional and physical violence, disturbing sexual situations and lots of drinking and drugging. Rated R, iffy for kids 16-18

DVD: "The Sorcerer's Apprentice"
With a mix of comedy, mythology, drama and romance, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" has a little something for everyone. Partly inspired by the Disney classic "Fantasia," the film puts a fantastical spin on the classic good-against-evil story. There are some violent scenes, but they are mostly bloodless and the romance is limited to a few kisses. Rated PG, OK for kids 9+

TV: "G.I. Joe Renegades"
A remake of the classic '80s cartoon, "G.I. Joe Renegades" is as weapon-filled and aggressive as the original, but with one big twist: The good guys are now taking orders from a woman. Gender equality aside, the series is meant to appeal to those who like the rough and tumble and aren't put off by intense animated violence. Rated TV-Y7-FV

]]>black swanBlackSwanbooksdvdelf yourselfElfYourselfepic mickeyepic mickey reviewEpicMickeyEpicMickeyReviewfamily entertainmentfamily funFamilyEntertainmentFamilyFung.i. joe renegadesG.i.JoeRenegadesgamesmockingbirdmoviesmusicnicki minajNickiMinajpink fridayPinkFridaythe sorcerers apprenticeTheSorcerersApprenticetvwebsitesSandy MapleFri, 03 Dec 2010 15:15:00 ESTReviews: What's New This Weekhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/29/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/29/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/29/reviews-whats-new-this-week/#commentsFiled under: New In Pop CultureHere is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Tangled"
"Tangled" is Disney's animated retelling of the Brother's Grimm fairy tale, "Rapunzel." Meant to appeal to both boys and girls, the film features a strong heroine and a prince who needs saving more than she does. A great new villain and wonderful original songs make this film one the entire family can enjoy together. Rated PG, OK for kids 5+

DVD: "Eat Pray Love"
Julia Roberts plays the lead role in "Eat Pray Love," the film adaptation of Elizabeth Gilbert's best-selling book of the same name. On a journey of self-discovery, Gilbert's travels take her to beautiful locations where she eats beautiful food. Some rough language and sexual references earn the film its rating. PG-13, OK for kids 14+

TV: "Freak the Freak Out"
A special episode of Nickelodeon's "Victorious," "Freak the Freak Out," finds the Hollywood Arts gang competing in a karaoke contest and nursing a sick sibling. Just like the series, the special features wacky predicaments and lots of musical interludes. Rated TV-G, OK for kids 8+

DVD: "The Search for Santa Paws"
While the cute talking puppies and adorable kids are sure to attract young viewers, "The Search for Santa Paws" has a rather sad storyline involving orphans and a cruel caregiver. In the end, it's all happily every after, but the tragedy and loss suffered along the way might be too much for some kids. Rated G, OK for kids 6+

TV: "iStart a Fan War" (iCarly)
The young web stars attend and inadvertently disrupt a fan convention in the iCarly special "iStart a Fan War." While Carly tries to impress her crush, her older brother comically clashes with an over-the-top fan played by the hilarious Jack Black. Just like the Nickelodeon series, the one-hour special is silly, harmless fun. Rated TV-G, OK for kids 8+

Denzel Washington, left, and Chris Pine are shown in a scene from "Unstoppable." Credit: Robert Zuckerman, AP/20th Century Fox

Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Unstoppable"A runaway train threatens a Pennsylvania town in "Unstoppable," an action adventure film starring Denzel Washington and Chris Pine. Although the film is non-stop suspense and explosions abound, it isn't graphically violent and the body count stops at one. Rated PG-13, OK for kids 13+

DVD: "Ramona and Beezus"
Based on Beverly Cleary's beloved book series, "Ramona and Beezus" is a kid-friendly movie about a mischievous little girl and the family who loves her. The main storyline is taken from "Ramona and Her Father" with secondary elements borrowed from other books in the series. It works beautifully thanks to the casting of Joey King, who perfectly captures the free spirit of Ramona Quimby. Rated G, OK for kids 6+

TV: "Avalon High"
New on the Disney Channel, "Avalon High" brings the legend of King Arthur to high school. Suspecting the football players are reincarnated Knights of the Round Table, the new girl in town sets out to discover the truth about her unusual new friends. Clean language and only very mild flirting make this show appropriate for younger kids. Rated TV-G, OK for kids 7+

]]>booksfamily entertainmentfamily funFamilyEntertainmentFamilyFunfireworkforgekaty perryKatyPerryminimonosmonopoly streetsMonopolyStreetsmoviesmusicramona and beezusRamonaAndBeezusunstoppablevideo gamesVideoGameswebsitesSandy MapleFri, 12 Nov 2010 12:37:00 ESTReviews: What's New This Weekhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/05/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/05/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/05/reviews-whats-new-this-week/#commentsFiled under: Books for Kids, Music, Movies, Video Games, New In Pop CultureHere is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Megamind"
After conquering his long-time nemesis, an alien super villain looks for new purpose in his life in "Megamind," an animated comedy starring Will Ferrell, Tina Fey and Brad Pitt. The jokes are clean, the romance is chaste and the violence is cartoonish and unrealistic. Rated PG, OK for kids 6+

DVD: "Toy Story 3"Andy's animated toys are back in "Toy Story 3," the third installment of Disney Pixar's hugely popular franchise. This time, Andy's off to college and the gang is off to day care. With a mix of laughs, tears and a few scares, it's that rare film the entire family can enjoy together. Rated G, OK for kids 5+

TV: "Shake It Up"
New on the Disney Channel, "Shake It Up" features CeCe and Rocky, two best friends learning to deal with the pressures and perks of fame after landing spots on a weekly televised dance show. While there's lots of dancing and a little flirting with boys, the show focuses mostly on the enduring friendship of the quirky pair as they adjust to life in the spotlight. Rated TV-G, OK for kids 7+

Whether we are springing forward or falling back, the changing of the clocks can play havoc on a child's sleep schedule. Here are some tips for helping your kids adjust to time change.

Springing ahead: Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. on the second Sunday in March. On that day, we essentially lose an hour when 2 a.m. suddenly becomes 3 a.m. Sixty minutes may not seem like much, but for a kid who just lost an hour of sleep, it can be rough. Help your child adjust by following this advice:

Don't try to compensate for the lost hour by allowing your child to sleep in, as this will only increase the amount of time it takes to adjust. Instead, maintain a regular schedule and expect some crankiness for a few days.

Instead of changing the time in one fell swoop, spread it out over a few days. Go to bed and rise 15 minutes earlier for a few days before the official time change.

Move your clocks forward on Saturday morning instead of Sunday. This trick won't necessarily help your kids adjust quicker, but it will mean they aren't experiencing their first night of Daylight Saving Time on a school night.

Once the clocks have changed, it will take a few days for everyone to fully adjust. Avoid naps close to bedtime and plan time for some relaxing evening baths or reading a book in bed before lights out.

Sunshine is the body's most powerful regulator. Make sure your kids spend plenty of time getting outdoor exercise during the day.

Falling back: Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on the first Sunday in November. Gaining an hour is easier than losing one, but can still mess up a child's internal body clock.

Maintain consistency in bedtimes. Your kids may not feel sleepy for the first few nights, but keeping them on a regular schedule will help them adjust more quickly.

For younger kids who nap during the day, help them to feel sleepy at night by shortening naps by about 15 minutes on the days leading up to the change.

Spend as much time as possible getting exercise and soaking up the sunshine.

A kid doesn't need to be able to tell time to realize that something is different when we lose or gain an hour on the clock. Talking to your kids about what is happening can help them feel better about feeling out of sorts. However you manage it, remember that your kids will adjust in a short time. And remember, the beginning and end of Daylight Saving Time are the perfect times to replace the batteries in your smoke detectors and ensure that they are in good working order.

]]>bedtimedaylight-savings-timeevergreensleepsleep-patternstime-changeSandy MapleFri, 05 Nov 2010 07:00:00 ESTReviews: What's New This Weekhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/29/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/29/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/29/reviews-whats-new-this-week/#commentsFiled under: Books for Kids, Music, Movies, Video Games, New In Pop CultureHere is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

DVD: "Yes, Virginia"
Based on a true story, "Yes, Virginia" is the heartwarming tale of a little girl's quest to prove the existence of Santa Claus and the kindness her mission evokes in those around her. A refreshing holiday tale absent the commercialism that's become so common, the film captures the true spirit of the holiday and shows how one person really can make a difference in the world. Not rated, OK for kids 4+

TV: "Scared Shrekless"
A Halloween special starring everyone's favorite ogre, "Scared Shrekless" features all the familiar movie characters trying to outdo each other telling scary stories while camped out at an abandoned and apparently haunted castle. As you might expect, it's more silly than scary and loaded with potty humor. Rated TV-PG, OK for kids 6+

Music: "Mean" by Taylor Swift
A timely song about being bullied, Taylor Swift's "Mean" is a single release from her third album, "Speak Now." Though not graphic, the lyrics clearly relate an abusive situation and Swift's determination to rise above the pain inflicted by her tormentor. OK for kids 12+

Games: Backyard Sports: Rookie Rush"
For Nintendo DS, DSi, Wii and Xbox 360, "Backyard Sports: Rookie Rush" is a multi-player game that includes the same characters from last year's "Sandlot Sluggers." In addition to quick football matches and multi-player tournaments, the game offers a fun storyline and lots of laughs along the way to football glory. Rated E, OK for kids 8+

Web: "Disney Create"
Free online apps let registered users paint, sketch, draw and animate at "Disney Create," a safe destination for budding artists who want to share their work. A language filter and pre-selected chat messages keep the site clean, and the easy-to-use tools encourage even the artistically-challenged to express themselves creatively. OK for kids 8+

Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Hereafter"
Matt Damon stars in "Hereafter," a drama in which the main characters struggle to come to terms with death and the idea of an afterlife. Directed by Clint Eastwood, the film is intensely dramatic and includes frightfully realistic scenes of a tsunami and a boy being run over by a car. Those scenes, along with some rough language and drug use, make the film inappropriate for younger audiences. Rated PG-13, OK for kids 15+

DVD: "Oceans"
A documentary from Disneynature, "Oceans" takes viewers below the surface for an up-close look at the amazing creatures that inhabit the Earth's waters. With beautiful images and a subtle message about respecting and preserving this underwater universe, the film is as gorgeous as it is educational. Rated G, OK for kids 8+

TV: "The Boy Who Cried Werewolf"
Featuring Victoria Justice and Brooke Shields, "The Boy Who Cried Werewolf" is Nickelodeon's version of a horror movie. Tween-friendly with a positive message about self-esteem, this made-for-television movie is meant to be more funny than frightening. Rated TV-G, OK for kids 8+

]]>active life explorerActiveLifeExplorerbarnyard danceBarnyardDancebooksdisney magic of healthy livingDisneyMagicOfHealthyLivingdvdgameshereafterLets move campaignLetsMoveCampaignmoviesmusicoceansrick riordanRickRiordanthe boy who cried werewolfthe lost heroTheBoyWhoCriedWerewolfTheLostHeroweb sitesWebSitesSandy MapleFri, 22 Oct 2010 12:22:00 ESTReviews: What's New This Weekhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/15/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/15/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/15/reviews-whats-new-this-week/#commentsFiled under: Books for Kids, Books for Parents, New In Pop CultureHere is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Life as We Know It"
After the death of their mutual friends, a couple who can't stand each other are named guardians of an orphaned child in the romantic comedy "Life as We Know It." The outcome is predictable, but the journey is fun as the new parents learn to love their child and each other. Rough language and lots of sexual situations make this film inappropriate for younger audiences. Rated PG-13, OK for kids 14+

DVD: "How to Train Your Dragon"A 3-D adventure featuring a young Viking boy who dares to be different, "How to Train Your Dragon" is a heartwarming story about looking beneath the surface and being true to yourself. Despite the fantasy violence and dragon attacks, the film is ultimately one about unconditional love between family and friends. Rated PG, OK for kids 8+

TV: "Pound Puppies"
Although the name is the same, the new "Pound Puppies" bears little resemblance to the original 1980s cartoon. This one features a pack of well-meaning canines working from a secret command center to match up homeless dogs with new owners. Although the dogs sometimes get up to a little mischief, the show is sweet and has a positive message about trust and loyalty. Rated TV-Y, OK for kids 4+

Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "Secretariat"
Uplifting and educational, "Secretariat" tells the true story of an extraordinary woman and the horse who would be champion. As much a story about horse racing as it is about gender equality, the film is a heartwarming tale the entire family can enjoy together. Rated PG, OK for kids 8+

DVD: "The Karate Kid (2010)"
A remake of the 1984 film, "The Karate Kid (2010)" features Jaden Smith as a 12-year-old American struggling to adjust to his new home in China. After becoming the target of local bullies, he finds the strength to face his fears through the practice of martial arts. The film is necessarily violent, but the language is clean and the message is ultimately one of peace. Rated PG, OK for kids 9+

TV: "Planet Sheen"
A spin-off of "The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron," "Planet Sheen" follows the adventures of a boy who takes a ride on a rocket and ends up on an uncharted planet. Silly cartoon violence and lots of potty humor are the hallmarks of this just-for-fun animated series. Rated TV-Y7, OK for kids 7+

]]>american girl doll web siteAmericanGirlDollWebSiteinnerstar universityInnerstarUniversitykarate kid 2010karate kid remakeKarateKid2010KarateKidRemakeonly girlOnlyGirlplanet sheenPlanetSheenrihannasecretariatVoyage of the Dawn TreaderVoyageOfTheDawnTreaderwii partyWiiPartySandy MapleFri, 08 Oct 2010 13:36:00 ESTReviews: What's New This Weekhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/01/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/01/reviews-whats-new-this-week/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/01/reviews-whats-new-this-week/#commentsFiled under: News, In The News, Weird But True, Books for Kids, Music, Movies, New In Pop Culture
Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.

In Theaters: "The Social Network"
A dramatization of the creation of Facebook, "The Social Network" shines a harsh light on founder Mark Zuckerberg and proves that sometimes the bad guy comes out on top. With lots of unethical behavior, crude language and sexual situations, the film is best suited for mature audiences. Rated PG-13, Iffy for kids 14-15

DVD: "Babies"Four infants from four different parts of the world star in "Babies," a documentary that examines the joys of childhood during the first year of life. With no commentary or subtitles, the film illustrates the very different experiences of children growing up in different cultures. Rated PG, OK for kids 7+

TV: "Teach: Tony Danza"
A seven-part reality series on A&E, "Teach: Tony Danza," documents the former "Who's the Boss?" star's experience as a 10th-grade English teacher at a Philadelphia high school. In the classroom and at home, viewers get a personal look at the challenges and rewards of the teaching profession. Rated TV-PG, OK for kids 12+

Music: "Playhouse Disney: Let's Dance!"Featuring familiar songs with a uptempo beat, "Playhouse Disney: Let's Dance!" will get preschoolers off the couch and on their feet. Kids will learn a lesson or two while enjoying music from such Disney shows as "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse," "Handy Manny," "Imagination Movers" and more. OK for kids 3+

Games: "Haunted House"
For Nintendo Wii, Windows and Xbox 360, "Haunted House" is an adventure game in which players must fight ghosts, monsters and other things that go bump in the night in a mysterious old house. With three difficulty settings, the game is appropriate for varying skill levels and is more spooky than violent. Rated E10+, OK for kids 10+

Web: Stardoll
A site for young fashionistas, "Stardoll" lets users express themselves by creating and dressing up paper dolls, participating in forums and writing stories and blogs. Users under 13 get a "Kid Safe" membership, which prevents them from contributing or accessing user-submitted content. OK for kids 13+